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Ghana's Parliament Addresses Growing Illegal Mining Crisis

  //science-technology.news-articles.net/content/2 .. ent-addresses-growing-illegal-mining-crisis.html
  Published in Science and Technology on Monday, January 26th 2026 at 17:47 GMT by Ghanaweb.com
      Locale: GHANA

Accra, Ghana - January 26th, 2026 - Growing concern over illegal mining activities encroaching on concessions held by Newmont Ghana Goldcorp Corporation has prompted a strong response from Ghana's Parliament, highlighting a deepening crisis within the nation's mining sector. The situation underscores the ongoing struggle to balance resource extraction, environmental protection, and the livelihoods of communities dependent on mining.

During a recent parliamentary sitting, Minority Leader Haruna Iddrisu formally flagged the issue, stating that illegal mining, often referred to as 'galamsey,' is directly impacting Newmont's operations and causing significant environmental degradation. His remarks triggered a lively debate amongst MPs, with many echoing his call for urgent governmental intervention.

"Mr. Speaker, the matter is quite serious," Iddrisu declared. "We are aware that illegal mining is going on, which is actually on Newmont's concession." This statement carries considerable weight, given Newmont's significant investment in Ghana and their role as a key contributor to the national economy. The intrusion of illegal miners directly undermines Newmont's legal right to extract resources and jeopardizes the stability of their operations.

The problem isn't new. Illegal mining has been a persistent challenge in Ghana for years, fueled by a combination of factors including unemployment, poverty, and the lure of gold. While the Ghanaian government has implemented various measures to curb the practice - including task forces, public awareness campaigns, and legal prosecutions - the scale of the problem often overwhelms these efforts. The minority in parliament have publicly criticized the government's response, suggesting the measures taken have not been sufficiently robust or consistently enforced.

Newmont Ghana Goldcorp Corporation, a major player in the Ghanaian gold mining landscape, has been actively engaged in combating illegal mining within its concession areas. Their approach extends beyond simply trying to physically remove miners; it involves a strategic focus on community engagement and collaborative partnerships with local authorities. These efforts often include supporting alternative livelihood programs for communities reliant on artisanal mining, and working with traditional leaders to foster understanding and cooperation. Despite these proactive steps, the persistent recurrence of illegal mining demonstrates the sheer scope and tenacity of the challenge.

The environmental consequences of illegal mining are severe. Galamsey operations frequently utilize harmful chemicals, such as mercury, to extract gold, leading to widespread water contamination and soil degradation. This not only poses a direct threat to public health but also damages vital ecosystems and agricultural land. The long-term impacts on biodiversity and the overall health of the Ghanaian environment are significant.

Beyond the environmental damage, the encroachment on Newmont's concession has broader economic ramifications. It jeopardizes the company's investments, potentially impacting employment figures and future revenue generation. It also weakens Ghana's reputation as a reliable destination for foreign investment, further complicating the nation's economic development plans.

The parliamentary debate has spurred renewed calls for a multi-faceted approach to tackling the problem. Suggestions include strengthening law enforcement capabilities, increasing penalties for illegal mining activities, and implementing more effective monitoring and surveillance systems. A key point of contention remains the level of governmental commitment and the resources allocated to address the issue effectively. Further investigation into the sources of funding and equipment used by illegal miners is also anticipated, as organized crime and external actors are increasingly suspected of fueling the illicit activity.

Ultimately, resolving the illegal mining crisis requires a concerted effort from the government, the mining industry, local communities, and international stakeholders. Finding a sustainable solution that balances economic development with environmental protection and social responsibility remains a critical priority for Ghana.